How to make stickers dishwasher-safe

You’ve got a stack of stickers you love and a water bottle that’s begging for decoration. The problem? Most stickers peel, fade, or fall apart after a few cycles in the dishwasher. Even the ones labelled ‘waterproof’ don’t always last. To survive soap, heat, and pressure, you’ll need to do a little more. Here’s how to actually make your stickers dishwasher-safe, without overcomplicating things.

What makes stickers dishwasher-safe

If you're making your own stickers or trying to improve the ones you already have, it all starts with the right base. A good sealing method helps, but if the sticker paper or ink can’t handle water and heat, you’ll always be fighting an uphill battle.

Printable vinyl sticker paper

Forget regular paper. You need printable vinyl that’s labelled as waterproof or weatherproof. It’s much more resistant to moisture and holds up better to friction and heat.

Pigment-based or laser ink

Most home printers use dye-based ink, which can fade or bleed when exposed to water.

Pigment-based ink or laser printing is much more stable. If you’re not sure what your printer uses, check the cartridge label or the manufacturer’s website.

Protective laminate or sealant

Even the best sticker materials need a top layer of protection. A good laminating layer or clear sealant prevents your custom stickers from peeling, scratching, or smudging. It also locks in the edges, which are often the first places moisture tries to sneak in.

If you’re working with older stickers that weren’t printed on waterproof materials, sealing them might still help, but don’t expect perfection. For true dishwasher-safe results, every layer matters: the paper, the ink, and the seal.

Choose a sealing method for your stickers

Once you’ve got your stickers printed, the next step is protecting them. Whether you're using waterproof vinyl stickers or trying to rescue a batch you already have, sealing adds a barrier against water, heat, and friction.

You don’t need fancy tools (unless you want them), but you do need to pick a method that suits your materials and how much effort you want to put in. Here's what works.

1. Self-adhesive laminate

This is the easiest way to add a protective laminate without needing any machines. It’s just a clear film you stick on top of your stickers, then cut around the edges.

How to do it:

• Place your stickers flat on a clean surface
• Cut a piece of self-adhesive laminate slightly larger than each one
• Stick it down slowly and use a card or scraper to push out bubbles
• Trim around the edges, leaving a small border to help seal them in

It works on most sticker sheets and is a quick fix if you want your own stickers without buying new supplies.

2. Thermal laminating machine

If you’re making a lot of custom stickers, a laminator might be worth it. It gives you a smooth, even lamination and tends to hold up better in dishwashers over time.

How to do it:

• Print your sticker designs on waterproof sticker paper
• Place them inside a laminating pouch (leave some space between each one)
• Run the pouch through the machine
• Cut out each sticker, leaving a bit of laminate around the edges

This method gives a more professional, durable finish, especially for small businesses or anyone using a Cricut machine or cutting machine to make and sell stickers.

3. Clear-coat sealant

For curved surfaces like bottles or tumblers, a spray or brush-on clear sealant can be a better option. It forms a thin layer over the top that helps make your stickers more scratch-resistant and water-resistant.

How to do it:

• Let the printed stickers dry fully (at least 24 hours if freshly made)
• Work in a well-ventilated space and wear gloves or a mask if needed
• Apply the sealant in thin, even layers and allow to dry between coats
• Let it cure fully (for example, Mod Podge Dishwasher Safe needs up to 28 days to cure)
  
  

Not all sealants are the same, so make sure it’s safe for plastics and marked as waterproof or dishwasher-safe.

4. Use transparent contact paper

If you don’t have self-adhesive laminating film, transparent contact paper (like the kind used to cover books) works as a simple DIY laminating film.

How to do it:

• Cut the contact paper slightly larger than your sticker
• Stick it over the top and press down firmly to avoid bubbles
• Trim around the edges, leaving a small border

Not as tough as laminate, but cheap, easy to find, and fine for light use.

5. Epoxy resin coating

Want ultra-glossy, scratch-resistant, and long-lasting results? Resin takes effort but gives you a thick, professional-looking waterproof coat.

How to do it:

• Place stickers on a flat surface, ideally inside a mould or tray
• Mix epoxy resin and pour a thin layer on top
• Use a heat gun or lighter to pop air bubbles
• Let cure for 24 to 72 hours, depending on the product

Best for stickers on coasters, mugs, or anything you want to make extra long-lasting. Not ideal for flexible surfaces like water bottles.

6. Cover with packing tape (super quick fix)

If you just want to protect a few stickers temporarily, a strip of clear packing tape can help.

How to do it:

• Lay the tape over the sticker, press down, and cut around it

Not as neat or long-lasting as other options, but better than nothing. This is great for testing designs or protecting extra stickers you don’t plan to wash often.

7. Use printable vinyl that’s self-laminated

Some brands sell printable vinyl that comes with a clear, sticky laminate you apply after printing.

How to do it:

• Print your design on the bottom layer
• Peel and stick the top clear layer over it
• Cut your custom stickers to size

This gives you a waterproof sticker in one neat little package. No machine, no sealant. It’s more expensive, but the finish is clean and waterproof when paired with pigment ink.

Final thoughts

If you're making your own waterproof stickers, the key is layering the right materials with the right method. But even if you're working with stickers you already have, a little sealing can go a long way.

A few extra tips:

• Let your sealed stickers cure completely. Rushing it can ruin the results
• Test one sticker before sealing a whole batch
• If the edges peel, add an extra border of laminate to lock it down

Want to skip all that and just get stickers that hold up straight out of the pack?

At Sticker it, we use professional-grade printers, high-quality vinyl, and premium inks to make stickers that are durable, vibrant, and designed to last, even through the dishwasher. Most of our stickers, including our popular die cut stickers, are made to stick through it all.

Whether you’re labelling bottles or decorating gear, our stickers stay sharp, not soggy.

FAQs

Can you use a Cricut machine to make waterproof stickers?

Yes, a Cricut machine can help you create precise cuts for custom waterproof stickers, but it doesn’t print or seal them. You'll need to print on waterproof sticker paper first, then apply a protective laminate or sealant before cutting your designs using Cricut Design Space.

Are vinyl stickers waterproof?

Yes, most vinyl stickers, especially those made with waterproof vinyl sticker paper, are designed to be waterproof and durable. They have a strong adhesive and are less likely to peel when exposed to water. Use waterproof ink and laminate to make them last longer.

What’s the difference between waterproof and water-resistant stickers?

Water-resistant stickers can handle light moisture or a quick splash but won’t hold up to full submersion or dishwashing. Waterproof stickers are made with high-quality materials like vinyl and sealed with a laminate, making them far more protective. Paper stickers, even with some coating, are rarely fully waterproof.

What is the best sticker paper for making waterproof stickers?

The best sticker paper for making waterproof stickers is printable vinyl. It’s stronger than regular paper, holds ink better, and resists peeling. Pair it with a protective laminate or clear spray for even more durability. Make sure the adhesive is strong enough for surfaces like bottles or laptops.

Can I print waterproof stickers with a regular printer?

You can print on waterproof sticker paper like printable vinyl using a regular inkjet printer, but only if you’re using pigment-based ink. Dye ink may fade or smear when wet. For best results, use the right materials, let your printed stickers dry fully, and add a laminate. See which printers are best for stickers.